Whether you're 18 or 80, put it in writing

by Erika Erickson

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 23:20:48 GMT —

It's a tough topic to think about, but it's something we all have to think about eventually. Advance directives are legal forms that allow you to make decisions about your end-of-life issues and care beforehand. Whether you're 18 or 80, making decisions now will make your family's decisions easier later.

Making a House Call this week is Tammy Tarsa, owner of Integrity Home Health Care in Traverse City.

Integrity Skilled Care, Inc. received its Medicare accreditation last month and will now be able to provide care (Nursing, Physical and Occupational Therapy, Home Health Aides) for seniors (65+) coming out of the hospital.

First, what are advance directives?

"Advance directives are a way for people to keep control over their medical treatment and values," said Tarsa. "They are also to name an individual to make medical decisions for them if they are unable to."

Tarsa has a "Five Wishes" approach to make sure you cover every area.

Tarsa said to include:

1. The person you want to make care decisions for you when you can't

2. The kid of medical treatment you want (or don't want)

3. How comfortable you want to be

4. How you want people to treat you

5. What you want your loved ones to know

Tarsa said to get started as soon as possible.

"It's important to think about these options while you are healthy, and discuss them with your family," said Tarsa. "Even if you don't include them in the decision aspect or discussion, it is important for them to know your decisions or at least know where the information is!"